FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is anodizing?

Anodize is a coating of aluminum oxide that is grown from the aluminum by passing an electrical current through an acid electrolyte bath in which the aluminum is immersed. The coating thickness and surface characteristics are tightly controlled to meet end product specifications. Aluminum oxide is an extremely hard material that approaches the hardness of a diamond. As a result, the aluminum oxide layer provides excellent wear and corrosion protection.

Yes, anodize does not entail the use of heavy metals nor does it produce toxic waste. Anodize meets the environmental and safety directives of the FDA, USDA, ELV, WEEE and RoHS.

What substrates or base metals can be anodized?

The three substrates that can be anodized are aluminum, titanium, and magnesium. Steel or stainless steel cannot be anodized.

What is the difference between Type II “conventional anodize” and Type III “hard anodize”?

Type III or hard anodize offers a more dense aluminum oxide layer. To produce this requires increased electricity consumption and a super cooled electrolyte bath. Perhaps the best way to illustrate differences between type II “conventional anodize” and type III “hard anodize” is in the following chart. Notice the enhanced attributes of hard anodize versus conventional anodize.

Is there a price difference between conventional and hard anodize?

Hard anodize is more expensive due to increased energy requirements associated with the process. Ending cost differences are dependent upon many variables in a given order. For example: part size, racking instructions, packaging, etc.

What colors are available for anodize?

A rainbow of colors are available. Please ask and we can send a color palette which will allow you to match to your specifications or we can help you match to your project.

What alloys are best for anodizing?

In general, wrought alloy series 1000-7000 provide the best corrosion and aesthetic properties than cast alloy. Specific alloy choice to match performance needs should be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

What alloys are best for bright dip anodizing?

The following alloys are generally considered best for bright dip anodize: 5357, 5457, 5557, 6063, 6463, 7016, 7029

How much substrate material is removed during the Bright Dip process?

Approximately 0.0002” per side for a standard 3 minute process. (Alloy Dependent)

How can I determine which process I should choose given the operating environment?

So many variables come into play that in order to determine the optimal process we ask that you please contact one of our knowledgeable sales engineers or customer service reps for further help and clarification. Advanced Metal Finishing offers testing solutions to identify the best process for given environments.

Do you take orders from clients outside the United States?

Most definitely, and pricing will be offered based upon payment in U.S. dollars via wire transfer in advance.

How long are your quotes good for?

All quotes are good for 14 days.

Are there any size limitations for my project?

Yes, Please contact us for minimum and maximum sizes of materials that we can handle.

What are your payment terms?

We offer Net30 terms to approved customers

What are your rush charges for a faster and speedier delivery?

We consider this deemed as an expedite fee and we start pricing at $150. Expedite charges vary depending on each situation needed.